The Anti-Trend Guide to 2024 Fashion

We're only a four months into 2024 and already we've seen the rise of the "mob wife" aesthetic, the "Birkin mom" trend and the unexpected return of the peddle-pusher. Is it me, or are trends suddenly moving faster than they used to? Often, buzzy pieces pop up on the underground circuit, earning their stripes as an It buy through word of mouth and becoming fully fledged trends through exposure. But there are some pieces so established they cannot be considered trends. Certain buys are such classics that at any given time, in any given place, you'll spot them somewhere, signalling that the wearer is someone with undeniably good taste.

Take for example the trench coat you’ll dig out of your wardrobe whenever you need a light layer, the perfectly tailored trousers that go with every top in your rotation, or the flat shoes you can rely on for everyday wear. We all depend so much on these reliable staples that often they're not given their dues, but seeing as these wardrobe foundations really are the backbone of any well-curated capsule, it's time they had their turn in the limelight.

If you've scrolled through social media lately and felt like you've had enough of viral trends and meme-able looks, it's time for a palette cleanser. I’ve rounded up the pieces that I'm convinced will work the hardest in your 2024 wardrobe and beyond, and chances are, you'll already own at least one of them. No big red boots, no leg warmers and no low-slung jeans. You might spot these seven "anti-trend" buys enjoying a revival on the runways, but you certainly won't regret wearing them long into 2025 too.

1. BUILDABLE BASICS

Style Notes: It isn't hard to believe that a brand like The Row would start its journey with a mission to create the perfect white tee. Such is the power of a well-crafted basic; we've all hunted high and low for a T-shirt, tank top or long-sleeve to go under a jacket or throw on with jeans that does the job and looks smart whilst doing it. Those brightly coloured tops or printed blouses that shine on the hanger still have their moments, but they're often the first things to go in a wardrobe clear-out. Instead, we're shopping smarter, not harder in 2024, and stocking up on good layering pieces is always a wise investment.

2. TRUE BLUE

Style Notes: If there's one thing that we can all agree on, it's that finding the "perfect" pair of jeans comes with a lot of trial and error, but if there's another thing we can all agree on, it's that we rely on (at least) one pair of blue jeans. There's just something about a leg-lengthening pair of straight, mid-blue jeans that makes every outfit better. Getting ready in five minutes? It's jeans and a tee. Dressing up for the evening? There's a reason that the phrase "jeans and a nice top" is a part of our collective consciousness. Black denim might be its dressier sister and grey is having a moment, but if you're looking for a pair of jeans that will last for years to come, it has to be a true blue.

3. HAUTE HOISERY 

Style Notes: Tights, knee-highs and sensible socks; suddenly covering up has never been so chic, and fortunately for us this easy styling hack is as practical as it is polished. Until summer hits we'll likely be treated to everything the Great British weather has to throw at us, so instead of a bare-leg or a chilly sandal, why not add some opaque tights or wool socks? Controversial for some and a staple for others, it's the cheapest way to elevate a simple outfit to runway levels, especially when worn with boxy tailoring and a mid-length skirt.

4. GREAT LENGTHS 

Style Notes: Every once in a while the runway may try and have us believe that we're going to be enticed by the idea of boob-skimming cropped jackets, but when was the last time anyone ever wanted a coat that kept their shoulders warm but left their midriff exposed to the elements? Long, sweeping coats have been the fashion person's outerwear of choice ever since they first sashayed into stores, and no matter what you're wearing underneath, these statement coats are the whole outfit. Just ask Jennifer Lawrence, Katie Holmes and Alexa Chung.

5. THE LWD (LONG WHITE DRESS)

Style Notes: Sure, we're all familiar with the LBD, but now it's time to discuss what I am convinced is its far superior counterpart—the long white dress. Unlike a black mini, this chic number drifts effortlessly between day and nighttime wear, and as soon as the temperature rises it becomes a key player in our seasonal wardrobes. Okay, you might not be able to wear it to a wedding, but nothing quite beats the feeling of stepping into a clean, all-white, instant outfit (quiet-luxury, eat your heart out). Confident, commanding and comfortable in equal measures.

6. TOP OF THE POPS

Style Notes: Although we've technically declared top-handle bags an official handbag "trend" for 2024, you'll be seeing them everywhere for the foreseeable. Celebrities and street style stars are choosing these ladylike, polished bags over slouchy hobos and slung-on shoulder bags, and although no two top-handle styles are the same, there's something quaint about the sophisticated silhouette tucked under an arm or held elegantly at knee level. The best part? Some even come with a detachable chain so you can transform it into a functional crossbody at a moments notice.

7. BEGUILING BURGUNDY

Style Notes: And now to one of the most criminally underrated colours in the spectrum—rich burgundy. I use the term "rich" specifically to highlight just how expensive this colour makes everything look. Worn head-to-toe or even just as an accessory, this shade of deep merlot will take you to new heights of luxury (even if you haven't spent four figures). Whilst we all enjoyed Barbie pink for a summer and hot red throughout autumn, burgundy is one of the few colours you'll see in your wardrobe in a year and won't wonder, "What was I thinking?". In fact, you'll be happy to wear it time and again.